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Video Game Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lnw

Senior Advanced Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$150K - $172K/yr

Job Summary As a Senior Advanced Software Engineer at Light & Wonder, you will be a key contributor ... Exposure to Windows and Linux platforms and video drivers. * Strong understanding of game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Naperville, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Simplex Trading

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Software Engineer pay range $125,000-$200,000 USD Why us? Founded in Chicago in 2004, Simplex is a ... In-person happy hours, celebrations throughout the year, game nights, video game fun, and so much ...

Univision

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$108K/yr

Software Engineer Summary: We are seeking a Software Engineer who will join our Engineering team ... Some experience with video production and post-production technologies preferred. * Basic knowledge ...

GN Group

Software Engineer (Glenview, IL)

Glenview, IL · On-site

Software Engineer (Onsite - Glenview, IL) *Please consider before applying: This is a hybrid role ... audio, video, and gaming solutions. Inspired by people and motivated by innovation, we deliver ...

Motorola

Software Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$83K - $105K/yr

That's mission-critical communications devices and networks, AI-powered video security & access ... Our RF Site Software Engineering organization, a key component of the ASTRO Networks business ...

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

Software Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$83K - $105K/yr

That's mission-critical communications devices and networks, AI-powered video security & access ... Our RF Site Software Engineering organization, a key component of the ASTRO Networks business ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsVideo Game Software Engineer JobsVideo Game Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Video Game Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10.9K

$149.1K

$172.5K

How much do video game software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game software engineer in Chicago, IL is $149,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,400.00 and $172,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Video Game Software Engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Video Game Software Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, ensuring optimal performance across different platforms, and integrating new features without introducing bugs. Collaboration with designers, artists, and QA testers is essential, which requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Additionally, tight deadlines and evolving project requirements can add pressure, making effective time management and problem-solving abilities crucial for success in this role.

What Does a Video Game Software Engineer Do?

As a video game software engineer, you program video games for a computer or console system. You collaborate with designers who create a concept and design the look and feel of the game, write code to create the characters and mechanics, and implement troubleshooting tools and processes to test for bugs before the game’s release. If necessary, you fix any issues in the code while sticking to project deadlines. You carry out your duties and responsibilities alongside a team of gaming designers, programmers, and project managers to help the project move smoothly from start to finish.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Video game software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially those in senior or lead roles at major companies, or with significant experience and specialized skills such as graphics programming or AI development. High earnings often involve bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing in addition to base salary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Video Game Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Video Game Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (typically in C++, C#, or Python), a solid grasp of computer science fundamentals, and a relevant degree such as computer science or software engineering. Experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems (e.g., Git), and possibly certifications in game development tools are highly beneficial. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills that help engineers adapt to rapidly changing design requirements and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Mastering these skills ensures efficient development cycles, high-quality gaming experiences, and successful teamwork in a competitive industry.

What is the difference between Video Game Software Engineer vs Game Developer?

AspectVideo Game Software EngineerGame Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; programming skillsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related; programming and design skills
Work EnvironmentGame studios, tech companies, independent projectsGame studios, freelance, indie development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in industry; focuses on software developmentBroader term; includes design, storytelling, and programming

While both roles involve programming and work within the gaming industry, a Video Game Software Engineer primarily focuses on coding, system architecture, and technical implementation. A Game Developer often encompasses a broader scope, including game design, storytelling, and project management. The roles overlap significantly, but the engineer is more technically specialized in software development.

What does a Video Game Software Engineer do?

A Video Game Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the software that powers video games. They write code to implement game mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. These engineers collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and other team members to ensure the game runs smoothly and provides a great user experience. Their work often involves problem-solving, optimizing code for performance, and debugging issues throughout the game development process.

Can a software engineer work on video games?

A software engineer can work on video games by developing game engines, gameplay features, or tools using programming languages like C++ or C#. They often collaborate with designers and artists and may need knowledge of graphics APIs, game development frameworks, and debugging tools. Many game studios seek engineers with experience in real-time systems and performance optimization.

Will game dev be replaced by AI?

Video game software engineers design and develop games using programming languages and tools, and AI can assist in automating certain tasks like testing or asset generation. However, creative problem-solving, storytelling, and complex decision-making remain human-driven aspects of game development that AI cannot fully replace.

How much does a video game software engineer make?

The average salary for a video game software engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level engineers may earn less, while experienced developers with specialized skills or working on popular titles can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.
More about Video Game Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Video Game Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,097 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Senior Advanced Software Engineer

Senior Advanced Software Engineer

Light and Wonder, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$150K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Light & Wonder rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 15 rated gambling companies

Job description

Gaming:
Welcome to the world of land-based gaming. At Light & Wonder, it's all about the games, and our Gaming team builds cutting-edge technology, products, and content for the most iconic casinos and operators across the globe.
Position Summary
The Mission
Drive innovation and quality in slot game development through expert-level software engineering.
Job Summary
As a Senior Advanced Software Engineer at Light & Wonder, you will be a key contributor within a collaborative, global engineering team focused on delivering robust, innovative technology solutions. These solutions support both internal systems and customer-facing products. In this role, you will be responsible for the testing, integration, and validation of software applications, ensuring they meet functional, technical, and regulatory standards.
Outcomes
  • Deliver robust and scalable slot game software.
  • Lead technical initiatives and mentor junior engineers.
  • Ensure compliance with platform standards.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of development processes.

Essential Job Functions
  • Design, develop, test, and maintain slot game software.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and implement features.
  • Ensure software quality through code reviews and testing.
  • Provide technical guidance and support.
  • Document software designs and processes.
  • Stay current with industry trends and technologies.
  • Any other duties assigned.

The targeted pay range for this role is $150,000- $172,000. The total compensation package for this position may also include applicable incentive compensation, such as an annual performance bonus. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, depth of experience, specific work geography, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
As a member of the L&W team, you will be eligible for company sponsored benefits that include healthcare, dental, vision, paid time off, a generous 401(k) plan, tuition assistance, and much more.
Qualifications
Training and/or Experience
  • 10+ years of professional software development experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field.
  • Experience in gaming industry preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Expert in C++ and/or C#.
  • Knowledge of Godot and other game engines.
  • Exposure to Windows and Linux platforms and video drivers.
  • Strong understanding of game development frameworks.
  • Proficient with debugging and profiling tools.
  • Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
  • Ability to lead and mentor team members.

Additional Information
This is a hybrid role based in our Chicago studio. Team members are expected to be in the office 4 days a week to support collaboration and studio culture.
Physical Requirement
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, use hands, operate a computer, and have specific vision abilities to include close and distance vision, and ability to adjust focus working with computer and business equipment.
Work Conditions
The work conditions are representative and typical of similar jobs in comparable organizations.
Light & Wonder and its affiliates (collectively, L&W) are engaged in highly regulated gaming businesses. As a result, certain L&W employees may, among other things, be required to obtain a gaming or other license(s), undergo background investigations or security checks, or meet certain standards dictated by law, regulation or contracts.
In order to ensure L&W complies with its regulatory and contractual commitments, as a condition to hiring and continuing to employ its employees, L&W requires all of its employees to meet those requirements that are necessary to fulfill their individual roles. As a prerequisite to employment with L&W (to the extent permitted by law), you shall be asked to consent to L&W conducting a due diligence/background investigation on you.
This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive; it is intended to identify major responsibilities and requirements of the job. The employee in this position may be requested to perform other job-related tasks and responsibilities than those stated above.
#RA-LI
#RA-Hybrid
Light & Wonder is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. If you'd like more information about your equal employment opportunity rights as an applicant under the law, please click here for EEOC Poster.

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